Sunshine State Comfort: Florida’s Fresh Garden Vegetable Soup Recipe

Florida, known for its sunny beaches and vibrant culture, is also home to a rich culinary tradition that celebrates fresh, local ingredients. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of Florida’s farm-to-table approach is the Garden Vegetable Soup. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of sunshine, brimming with the freshest vegetables that Florida has to offer.

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The Heart of Florida in a Bowl

Imagine a steaming bowl filled with a colorful medley of vegetables like juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and tender green beans, all simmered to perfection in a rich broth. This Garden Vegetable Soup isn’t just comforting; it’s a tribute to Florida’s year-round growing season and the abundance of produce that comes with it. It’s a healthy, hearty meal that reflects the state’s commitment to freshness and flavor.

Recipe: Florida Garden Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or green)
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or frozen)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the flavors.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the green beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
4. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Let the flavors meld together for a few more minutes over low heat.
5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

A Bowl Full of Sunshine

This Garden Vegetable Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace, perfect for a breezy Florida evening or a chilly day when you crave a bit of comfort. The blend of fresh vegetables and simple seasonings creates a symphony of flavors that feels light yet satisfying, much like a day spent under the Florida sun.

Whether you're enjoying it on your patio in the warm Florida breeze or around a cozy kitchen table, this soup is a wonderful reminder of the state's agricultural bounty and its love for simple, wholesome food. So grab a spoon, take a sip, and let the taste of Florida’s freshest garden vegetables brighten your day.

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Family Recipe